Planning a Business Trip to Japan
To plan a business trip to Japan, prioritize booking a hotel near a major JR station in Tokyo and secure a portable Wi-Fi device or an eSIM before you land. Schedule meetings at least 4 weeks in advance and ensure you have digital and physical business cards ready to exchange.
- Secure your connectivity. Do not rely on hotel Wi-Fi for your entire trip. Rent a pocket Wi-Fi device at Narita or Haneda airport upon arrival, or purchase an eSIM (like Airalo or Ubigi) before departure so you have data immediately after landing.
- Book transport strategically. If you are staying in Tokyo, book a hotel within walking distance of the Yamanote Line (e.g., Shinagawa or Shinjuku). If you need to travel between cities, download the SmartEX app to book Shinkansen tickets in advance.
- Prepare your business cards (Meishi). Print professional business cards with your Japanese job title and company details on one side. You will be expected to present your card with both hands; never slide it across a table or shove it into your pocket immediately.
- Schedule meetings early. Japanese business culture values formality. Send formal meeting requests via email 4 to 6 weeks out. Confirm the location, participants, and agenda one week before the meeting date.
- Arrange cash access. Japan is still a cash-heavy society for smaller expenses. Use 7-Eleven ATMs (Seven Bank) to withdraw yen using your debit card; they offer the best exchange rates and are open 24/7.
- Do I need to speak Japanese?
- No, but learning basic greetings (Ohayou gozaimasu, Arigatou gozaimasu) is highly appreciated. If your counterpart does not speak English, hire an interpreter through your hotel concierge.
- Is tipping expected?
- No. Tipping is not part of Japanese culture and can cause confusion. Excellent service is included in the price.